A kayak is a slim designed paddleboat that is navigated using a double-blade paddle. Traditional kayaks are covered by a deck that prevents the entry of spray water or waves.
Inflatable kayaks, also known as a blow-up kayak or air kayaks, are gaining popularity. In the initial days, the kayak community didn’t take them seriously, as they were quite vulnerable to damage, and their driving characteristics were not comparable to a hard-shell kayak. However, they have come a long way since then and are now extensively used for different types of Kayaking.
Setup of inflatable Kayak
Air Kayaks can be easily inflated. Many inflatable kayaks comprise of three air chambers—a floor chamber and two side chambers. These Kayaks can be inflated using a hand pump, foot, or electric pump. Depending on the Kayak material, it is possible to adjust the amount of air into its chambers, impacting the operating pressure. Increased pressure in the air chamber increases its stiffness and driving abilities.
Uses of inflatable kayaks
There are multiple types of inflatable kayaks available in the market with each having its specific use:
Recreational Kayak
Recreational kayaks are meant for calm water and short relaxing tours and are ideal for beginners with no paddling experience. These types of Kayaks are typically under 12 feet in length and wide enough to have a low probability of capsizing. They are widely used at rental stations.
Fishing Kayaks
Inflatable fishing kayaks have a distinct round shape at the front and back for added stability. These boats are made of ultra-durable materials that can withstand sharp hooks and have a high weight capacity. They are also equipped with features geared towards fishing activities such as rod holders, anchor cleats, and bait buckets.
Ocean and Sea Kayaking
Inflatable sea kayaks are specially designed for use in sea waters and have added features such as scupper holes. Saltwater can damage any kayak over time; hence this type of inflatable kayaks is made of materials that resist saltwater.
Touring Kayak
Inflatable touring kayaks are meant for long distances on lakes, rivers, or near coastal areas. These vessels are quite long that provides good speed and have a thin shape, but wide enough for excellent stability and offer enough space for luggage. Most touring kayaks come equipped with rudders to support steering. Inflatable touring kayaks can be used in both fresh and ocean waters.
Whitewater
Inflatable Whitewater kayaks tend to be wide and short compared to conventional inflatable kayaks and offer more stability and maneuverability, but they have a limited weight carrying capacity. The comprehensive design ensures that the Kayak is stable, while the reduced length enhances navigation around obstacles such as rocks.
These Kayaks can only be used on white water rivers, where the primary objective is navigation through rapids, as due to their design, they are slow to paddle. Their structure helps in navigating the vessel with minimal effort as the rapids tend to propel the Kayak.
Most of the inflatable kayaks for Whitewater are self-bailing (built-in water drainage hole). Some inflatable kayaks are also equipped with scupper holes, which drain water from the cockpit and d-rings, and a spray skirt that reduces the amount of water entering the Kayak in the form of spray or waves.
Pros and Cons of Inflatable Kayaks
Advantages
Lightweight:
While the weight varies based on size and material, inflatable kayaks are generally lighter than hard-shell kayaks. A solo inflatable kayak weighs around 8 to 40 pounds and a tandem Kayak from 35 to 65. On the other hand, a solo hard-shell kayak typically weighs approximately 40 to 70 pounds while tandem hard-shell kayaks weigh around 60 to 90 pounds. The lighter weight makes them portable and easy to carry.
Compact:
Since inflatable Kayaks can be deflated, they can be easily stored in small, indoor spaces. They are also easily portable as they don’t require a roof rack or trailer and can be stowed inside a vehicle.
There are some storage bags available with backpack straps or handles that can help carry the vessel at the desired place. The portability of Inflatable Kayaks comes in handy when reaching overgrown or feature rough terrain that would be difficult to navigate while carrying a hard-shell kayak.
Practically Unsinkable:
High-quality inflatable kayaks are virtually unsinkable, as most of them are equipped with multiple air chambers. If one chamber gets punctured, the other chambers will remain inflated and keep the vessel afloat.
Stability:
Inflatable kayaks provide similar stability as hard-shells— primarily due to having a broader and flatter base. However, the paddler needs to ensure that the Kayaks’ air chambers are fully inflated before putting in water for a steady paddling.
Versatility:
Unless you plan to tackle class III+ rapids, enter races, or participate in other types of paddling that would require a specialized boat, one inflatable Kayak would be enough for all your water pursuits, whether it be fishing, touring, sea kayaking and more.
Disadvantages
Performance:
Inflatable kayaks are slower than hard-shell Kayak, partly due to the inherent flex in inflatable designs, which translates to a loss of speed. However, for an average recreational user, this is not a significant factor.
Launch Time:
While inflatable kayaks are more comfortable to transport, they require more preparation than hard-shells before starting paddling. The air needs to be filled in the Kayak, and it takes around seven to 10 minutes to fully blow-up a tandem kayak with a foot pump.
Susceptibility to Wind and Waves:
Due to their inherent lighter-weight inflatable kayaks are more susceptible to adverse conditions. The shape of inflatable kayaks also contributes to their sensitivity to wind and waves compared to hard-shell kayaks, which have sleeker profiles that allow them to cut through these conditions more readily.
Drying Time:
As they require more time and effort while launching, there is more time to put an inflatable kayak. They need to be laid out to dry thoroughly before it can be folded and stored. This means you’ll either need to wait at the take-out or lay it out to dry at home.
Choosing the Right Inflatable Kayak
The intended user of Kayaks: Inflatable kayaks are designed for portability and quick inflation; hence they are more often on the small side. If these kayaks are going to be used by tall people, they should consider kayaks with ample legroom because cramped conditions can make Kayaking uncomfortable quickly. Moreover, since inflatable kayaks usually have much thicker walls than hard-shell kayaks and are often narrower to sit.
Inflatable kayaks are an excellent option to use with kids and pets. However, there are few things to be considered to ensure safety. Pet claws, especially dogs, may scratch or abrade the inside of the Kayak; hence you should look for an inflatable kayak made out rugged materials to endure scratching.
While inflatable kayaks are inherently stable, but Kayaking with kids and pets can be a bit unpredictable. Hence consider a kayak that is low in water and doesn’t tilt easily.
Storage and Portability
The primary advantages of inflatable kayaks over hard-shell Kayaks are portability and compact storage, with some deflated kayak fitted into a large backpack. However, some inflatable kayaks are constructed using heavy-duty material, which makes them less compact, hence it is essential to find a balance between ease of storage and construction quality.
Material
Inflatable kayaks are manufactured from PVC, Pennel Orca, or Nitrylon.
1. PVC: PVC is economical and extremely durable. Most of the inflatable kayaks are made from durable PVC vinyl, with the gauge of vinyl listed. PVC can be glued or welded and is easy to patch. Furthermore, it can also be used as a coating on other types of materials such as nylon to increase its strength and tear resistance.
The primary drawback with PVC is that it is not resistant to chemicals, extreme temperatures, or UV rays. It is recommended to use a UV protectant spray to protect the Kayak from UV damage.
2. PENNEL ORCA MATERIAL: Pennel Orca is a synthetic rubber that is extremely sturdy and durable. Inflatable kayaks made from Orca material are abrasion-resistant, and also UV rays, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. The Kayak interior is often made of nylon or polyester then coated with the Orca material on the exterior of the Kayak. Kayaks made from Pennel Orca material are great for heavy Whitewater and rugged use, but they are quite expensive. Also, the material needs to be glued as opposed to welded.
3. NITRYLON: Nitrylon is a lamination of synthetic nitrile rubber and natural rubber over a 1200-denier low-stretch polyester fabric. Nitrylon is comparatively more environmentally friendly than PVC or Pennel Orca. Nitrylon is puncture and abrasion-resistant and can easily handle frigid temperatures. The downside is that Nitrylon is a weighty material, and because of that, it is only used on the boat’s outer chambers, which is more susceptible to wear and tear.
Weight and capacity
The weight of an inflatable kayak is critical, especially for hikers who have to carry the vessel around. You also need to consider the total weight of boat, gear, and paddler. If the boat is overloaded, it will sit too low in the water and compromise efficiency.
Heavy-duty kayaks are made using thick material and are thus more resistant to punctures. However, taking a heavy inflatable kayak might be wearisome. A more lightweight kayak is more comfortable to carry and easier to transport. A lighter boat enables us to carry more gear because less of the weight capacity is taken up by the boat’s weight.
Skegs
Skegs are small rudders attached to the rear of the Kayak to assist in tracking while in water. Many inflatable kayaks have removable skegs or interchangeable ones for different types of water. Skegs improve speed and tracking and help in paddling the Kayak efficiently.
Air chambers
Multiple air chambers are incredibly important. Air chambers ensure that the inflatable Kayak remains buoyant on the water in the case of a leak or puncture and improves the inflatable Kayak’s overall hull shape.
Over time, improper inflation may affect the shape of air chambers to distort; multiple air chambers reduce the impact of this distortion and prolong the Kayak life.
Length
Longer inflatable Kayaks sail efficiently and also offer extra storage space, while Kayaks with shorter hulls turn more quickly.
Depth
Deeper hulls offer more room for long-legged kayakers, while shallower hulls are less affected by wind. On the other hand, wider hulls offer more initial stability, while narrower hulls can go faster.
Seats
Since you will be spending long hours paddling in the boat, having adjustable, padded, and ergonomically designed seats would make the whole excursion comfortable.
Hatches
These provide access to interior storage areas. Bigger touring boats will have two, while day touring boats and a few recreational boats will have one.
Best Inflatable Kayaks (With Reviews)
1. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak
The Intex Excursion pro is constructed from super-tough laminate PVC with a polyester core, which is lightweight and highly resistant to abrasion damage, impact, and UV rays. It is also unaffected by gasoline, oil, and saltwater.
The Intex Excursion Pro uses high-pressure inflation to deliver extra rigidity and stability, with high-pressure spring-loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation. The boat includes 86in Aluminum Oars and a High-output pump, two floor-mounted footrests, two integrated recessed fishing rod holders, two adjustable bucket seats. Additionally, the Kayak comes equipped with a removable and adjustable mounting bracket for accessories, such as GPS systems, fish finders, swivel fishing rod holders, etc. The vessel also includes a carry bag and repair patch.
Intex Excursion Pro is equipped with ergonomically designed adjustable seats and adjustable footrests, allowing comfortable paddling for a long time. The seats are fitted with buckles that lock the backrest. The inflatable Kayak includes two removable skegs for deep and shallow water to improve maneuverability. Intex Excursion Pro has storage space in bow and stern with stainless steel d rings for tying down Dry bags and gear. The total weight capacity of the Kayak is 400 pounds. The Intex Excursion Pro is certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association using ABYC standards and comes with a 90-day limited warranty.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Load capacity of 400 lbs
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- 3-ply super tough construction
Cons
- Low-quality oars
- Not great for choppy waters
Why Buy – The package includes EVERYTHING you need to enjoy your day on the water. This is an excellent starting kit for someone looking to get into the hobby and easily allow owners to upgrade as they go.
2. ADVANCED ELEMENTS Straightedge 2 Kayak
The Advanced Elements StraightEdge 2 is a tandem, sit-on-top inflatable Kayak. The boat incorporates an aluminum bow and stern frame to improve tracking in open water. The Kayak is made from two layers of heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin material for extreme puncture resistance.
The Kayak sits low in the water, so you don’t tip over easily. It is a “sit on top” design, so your legs don’t get hot, yet it glides through the water almost as quickly as kayaks, which lower your center of gravity by sitting you “below” the waterline. The Kayak measures 13 inches in length and weighs 47 lbs, and it can carry load upto 500 lbs.
The Advanced Elements StraightEdge offers three seating positions to allow it to be set up in solo or tandem mode. The Kayak can be configured as self-bailing in bigger waves, or close ports in calm or cold water. The inflatable comes with a durable storage bag, two folding seats, a repair kit, and the owner’s manual. Includes limited one-year manufacturer’s warranty
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Comes pre-assembled in the factory
- Highly stable
- Enhanced safety with an open water tracking system
- Easily portable
Cons
- Tracking is difficult with two persons
- The floor tubes tend to fill with water between the air bladder and the outer skin.
- No extra back-support
- No pressure gauge
Why Buy – The Advanced Elements StraightEdge 2 is a versatile and handy Kayaks. Its convertible nature, coupled with the stability, is ideal for family kayaking and group adventures.
3. Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is constructed out of 18-gauge PVC, making it ideal for rugged use. The 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover provide added durability. The inflatable Kayak is puncture-resistant, salt waterproof, and UV resistant.
Furthermore, the boat is equipped with multiple air chambers to stay inflated if one is punctured and allows you to paddle safely to the shore.
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado features two softback seats with ample leg space. The inflatable Kayak comes with Berkley Quick Set Rod Holders that allow you to adjust the pole angle for a hands-free fishing experience. The boat comes with ample storage, and the gear can be easily stored in the mesh pockets or tied to D-rings. The Sevylor Coleman Colorado comes with a patented Airtight System, guaranteed not to leak.
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is National Marine Manufacturer’s Association (NMMA) certified, and it can hold up to 470 pounds of weight. The vessel can be fitted with a Sevylor trolling motor to expand your fishing capabilities, and it also comes with Paddle holders. The inflatable Kayak comes with a double threaded Boston valve making inflating and deflating easier. The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is also equipped with a pressure gauge, tracking fin, and carrying bag.
Pros
- Super Portable, easy to inflate/deflate, fits in the trunk, easy to carry like a backpack.
- The floor and sides are rigid and high, so you stay nice and dry.
- Provides relaxed fishing experience through its hands-free fishing features
- Excellent maneuverability and ability to access out of the way fishing spots
- Incredibly sturdy and durable Kayak
Cons
- Tracking: could be better, though the tracking fin does help
- The seats can be uncomfortable, especially for tall people.
- The rod holders tend to fall out frequently.
- The openings of the rear trolling rod holders are wide, sometimes too big for fishing poles.
Why Buy – The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is a great fishing Kayak. Made out of high-grade materials, the inflatable Kayak can endure everyday wear and tear and harsh water conditions. The device comes equipped with multiple features to allow you to fish for long hours. The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is hard to beat on quality, durability, or price.
4. Sea Eagle 330 Deluxe 2 Person Inflatable Sport Kayak
The Sea Eagle 330 is exceptionally durable, lightweight, and perfect for water adventures. The Sea Eagle is tall and stays afloat very well. It comes with adjustable seats, which can be placed anywhere inside the vessel, allowing flexibility for different types of paddling and paddlers. The inflatable Kayak also sports two small skegs on the bottom to improve tracking and also features a scupper hole to help water drain from the boat.
The Sea Eagle 330 is built from puncture-resistant, extra-thick K-80 polykrylar hull material. The inflatable Kayak weighs only 26 pounds, yet it is sturdy enough to carry up to a 500-pound load and seat up to 2 adults. The boat has nine-inch tubes, I-beam construction, and high-frequency welded seams, and is rated up to Class III Whitewater. The craft comes with inflatable spray skirts, two inflatable movable & removable SEC seats, 2 AB30 paddles, a reliable foot pump, a repair kit, and a rugged carrying bag with convenient shoulder strap. The boat also comes with washed down inflatable spray skirts with storage.
The Sea Eagle 330 is NMMA certified and has a self-bailing drain valve, three deluxe one-way valves. The device comes with a limited three-year manufacturer’s warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Sturdy Construction
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- The package includes everything to take in water.
- Extended 3-years warranty
Cons:
- The Sea Eagle 330 sits so high in the water that it becomes a bit unstable in waves.
- The Kayak is quite short, making tandem paddling a bit challenging.
- Constricted cockpit space
- Riding high out of the water, the Sea Eagle is highly susceptible to wind.
Why Buy – If you are looking for a reasonably priced tandem kayak for calm waters, then the Sea Eagle 330 may be the right choice. The inflatable Kayak is easy to set up and includes everything you need to get out on the water. The no-nonsense watercraft is a relatively easy boat to use in calm conditions and its relatively low-price tag and a decent durability level, we think this uncomplicated craft is a pretty good fit for infrequent paddlers.
Tips to Maintain Inflatable Kayak
a. Dry-off Completely after use: The inflatable Kayak should be dried off thoroughly after use. Use a cloth to wipe the Kayak when it is still inflated. Then deflate the Kayak and dry off any remaining water droplets before storing it.
b. Sometimes water can get inside the cockpit, so it is often helpful to flip the kayak upside down once on land to drain out any excess water. When storing the Kayak away for a long time, ensure all moisture has been wiped away to avoid mold.
c. Storage the Kayak should be either stored in a garage or a locker. It should not be kept outside, even if it is undercover.
d. Avoid Paddling over sharp debris: Kayaking in shallow water, you might encounter sharp sticks or trash. Paddle around them and don’t risk by going over top if it is not avoidable
e. Use UV Protectant: Use 303 Protectant spray will protect the material on the inflatable Kayaks from the harsh UV rays. A couple of times in a year us enough, but if you live in a year-long hot climate, you may want to use it more.
